There are few events that capture the excitement of a continent like the Copa Libertadores. The 2023 edition promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with many of the top sides involved having leading chances according to the LATM sports betting sites. But, which clubs could have a leading chance to land success this year? You can find out everything you need to know about the 2023 Copa Libertadores here.
When Did The Copa Libertadore Start?
The Copa Libertadores officially got underway on February 7, with the final set to be played on November 11. Some of the lowest-ranked sides in the competition must first qualify for the major tournament before the group stages see four teams separated into eight groups. The format copies a very similar pattern to that of the Champions League. That is echoed by the fact that the two teams that finish first and second in each of the groups make it through to the knockout round. Meanwhile, the sides that finish third in the respective groups drop into the playoff round for the Copa Sudamericana.
Which Teams Are Competing In The Copa Libertadores?
The group stage for the Copa Libertadores is already underway, with all teams involved having already taken to the field. Group A was widely expected to be Flamingos’ for the taking, but defeat in their opening match has handed the advantage to Racing and Aucas, who sit first and second. Nacional will be the leading contender in Group B, and they got off to a great start with an away victory against Metropolitanos in Group B. Internacional could only pick up a draw in their opening match in the group against Independiente Medellin.
Bolivar was the shock opening day winner in Group C, as they sit top of the standings above Cerro Porteno. Both Barcelona and Palmeiras now face an almighty struggle to finish in the top two places. Fluminese made the dream start in Group D, as they landed an opening-day victory over Sporting Cristal. Meanwhile, The Strongest landed success against Argentinean giants River Plate.
Corinthians and Argentinos Juniors lead the way in Group E after picking up victories in their opening matches, while Group F saw all four teams pick up draws, including Boca Juniors. Libertad were the opening day winners in Group G, with Atletico Paranaense and Alianza Lima being held to draws. Meanwhile, in Group H, Atletico Nacional leads the way ahead of Olimpia, Melgar, and Patronato.
When Does The Knockout Stage Start?
The group stage will determine the sides that reach the knockout round of the Copa Libertadores. The opening phase will run between April 4 and June 29, before the draw for the round of 16 and beyond is made on July 21. Meanwhile, the dates for the round of 16 will see the teams involved compete in an opening leg in the first week of August, before the return matches take place seven days later.
The quarterfinal will then feature two legs at the end of August, as the four sides that will make up the semi-finals of the Copa Libertadores will be determined. Following that, the last four will clash in their opening legs on September 26, before the return matches take place in the following week.
After the final two teams left standing have been determined, the Copa Libertadores showpiece will be set. This year, the Copa Libertadores final will take place on November 11, with the iconic Maracana in Rio de Janeiro playing host to the world-famous game that will be watched by passionate fans across the globe.
Who Are The Leading Contenders?
There will be a fascinating Copa Libertadores in 2023, as there are no shortages of teams that appear to have credible chances. One side that certainly looks set to play a key role in the latter stages is Flamengo. The Brazilian side is the current favorite to win the tournament after winning the tournament on two occasions since 2019. Furthermore, they were also the beaten finalists in 2021.
Palmeiras were the winners of the competition in 2021 and 2020, and they are heavily favored to go close once again in 2023. River Plate is the shortest price for the Argentinean clubs involved. They haven’t won the Copa Libertadores since 2018, and that was their fourth honor. Since then, they were beaten in the 2019 final by Flamengo. Atletico Nacional Medellin could be one of the sides that may upset the odds this year, as they chase a third Copa Libertadores honor.
